By Lauren Aviram & Karolina Kamola
LSPA Co-Presidents
What a beautiful and meaningful afternoon it was! On Sunday, October 5, the LSPA hosted the 3rd annual Connect and Protect event at the picturesque Burying Hill Beach, a chance to clean up our beloved beach and an opportunity for families to engage in important learning experiences about local wildlife.
A Glorious Day for Learning and Action
The glorious weather set the stage for an amazing afternoon filled with community spirit and environmental stewardship. Bridget Cervero, the Educational Director from the Maritime Aquarium kicked off the event with an educational segment discussing horseshoe crabs in Long Island Sound—an essential and nearly threatened species for our coastal ecosystem which captivated the young minds. The children eagerly shared information about their favorite animals, sparking thoughtful discussions.
Our fellow parent, Abby Hausberg, then took center stage to delve into another significant species: the piping plover. These adorable little shorebirds nest along our Connecticut beaches, and Abby's passion for their preservation shone through as she encouraged a lively discussion about local bird populations.
Hands-On Conservation
A highlight of the afternoon was a unique hands-on experience for the children to help install a protective fence around a piping plover nest. This practical activity helped them understand the significance of protecting these nests, ensuring they can explain the importance of conservation when they encounter these birds in the wild.
Making a Difference Together
After the educational activities, everyone rolled up their sleeves and set out for the beach cleanup, a collaboration with the non-profit organization SAVE THE SOUND. Armed with trash bags and a commitment to keeping our beaches clean, families worked together to collect a notable amount of trash and debris, leaving Burying Hill Beach cleaner and safer for both wildlife and visitors. It was a perfect blend of learning, community service, and family fun that sparked a passion for protecting our environment. Thank you to everyone who contributed to making this day a success! Until next year!